How to Quickly and Easily Check Your IRS Tax Return Status- A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Check IRS Tax Return Status: A Comprehensive Guide

Tax season can be a stressful time for many individuals and businesses. Ensuring that your tax return is submitted correctly and on time is crucial, but sometimes, you may need to check the status of your return. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to check IRS tax return status, ensuring that you stay informed and in control of your tax situation.

Understanding the IRS Tax Return Status

Before diving into the process of checking your IRS tax return status, it’s essential to understand the different statuses that may be associated with your return. The IRS provides the following statuses:

1. Return Received: This status indicates that the IRS has received your tax return.
2. Return Accepted: This status means that the IRS has accepted your tax return and is processing it.
3. Return Processed: This status indicates that your tax return has been processed, and any refunds or adjustments have been made.
4. Refund Issued: This status means that your refund has been issued and is on its way to you.

Checking Your IRS Tax Return Status Online

The most convenient way to check your IRS tax return status is by using the IRS’s online tool, “Where’s My Refund?” To access this tool, follow these steps:

1. Visit the IRS website at irs.gov.
2. Click on the “Where’s My Refund?” link.
3. Enter your Social Security number, filing status, and the amount of your refund (if you know it).
4. Click “Submit.”

The tool will display the current status of your tax return. Keep in mind that it may take up to 24 hours for the status to be updated after you submit your tax return.

Checking Your IRS Tax Return Status by Phone

If you prefer to check your IRS tax return status by phone, you can call the IRS at 1-800-829-1954. Please note that this line is typically busy during tax season, and you may experience long wait times. To ensure a quicker response, follow these steps:

1. Have your Social Security number, filing status, and tax return information ready.
2. Call the IRS at 1-800-829-1954.
3. Follow the prompts to speak with a representative.

The representative will provide you with the current status of your tax return.

Checking Your IRS Tax Return Status by Mail

If you are unable to check your IRS tax return status online or by phone, you can request a status update by mail. To do so, follow these steps:

1. Write a letter to the IRS and include your Social Security number, filing status, and any other relevant information.
2. Mail the letter to the IRS at the appropriate address, which can be found on the IRS website.
3. Allow 4-6 weeks for the IRS to process your request and respond.

Conclusion

Checking your IRS tax return status is an essential step in ensuring that your tax return is processed correctly and that you receive any refunds or adjustments in a timely manner. By using the IRS’s online tool, calling the IRS, or requesting a status update by mail, you can stay informed and in control of your tax situation. Remember to keep your tax return information secure and up-to-date to avoid any potential issues.